e 


l>±  V\-tr 
* 


=25  iJ 


i c.  t 


- f .V^^LkjF  \ 

.vV 


{ *i  l I Cl;  /.l 

m V 

U 


• • ( 

I ( > ■ 


DU.  DE  WITT’S  SERMON 


BEFORE  THE 


C V. 


\ O \ ) 

< '■  f .1 


I f 
( 


,«  / ■ 

.1  / 


N / 

4 


AMERICAN  BOARD  OF  COMMISSIONERS 


Z\ )e  CSospel  JtJarbeat,  anb  Cferratfan'*  Dutg. 


A 


SERMON 


PREACHED  IX  BOSTON,  OCT.  6,  1830, 


AT  THE 


TWENTY-FIRST  ANNUAL  MEETING 


OF  THE 


AMERICAN  BOARD  OF  COMMISSIONERS 


FOR 


FOREIGN  MISSIONS. 


BY  THOMAS  DE  WITT,  D.  D. 

OF  THE  C1TT  OF  NEW  FORK. 


Boston: 

PRINTED  BY  CROCKER  & BREWSTER, 
47,  Washington  Street. 


1831. 


SERMON 


MATT.  ix.  37,  38. 

THEN  3AITH  HE  UNTO  HIS  DISCIPLES,  THE  HARVEST  TRULY  IS  GREAT,  BUT 
THE  LABORERS  ARE  FEW.  PRAY  YE  THEREFORE  THE  LORD  OF  THE 
HARVEST,  THAT  HE  WILL  SEND  FORTH  LABORERS  INTO  HIS  HARVEST. 

The  history  of  the  world  in  all  ages  exhibits  the 
extended  prevalence  of  ignorance  and  error,  of  sin 
and  misery.  The  mind  of  the  philanthropist  feels 
oppressed  with  the  contemplation,  and  naturally  in- 
quires, Shall  this  state  of  things  always  continue? 
Will  the  time  never  arrive  when  truth,  and  holiness, 
and  peace  shall  pervade  the  earth?  Philosophy, 
falsely  so  called,  has  speculated  on  the  perfectibility 
of  human  nature,  while,  in  infidel  rejection  of  truths 
the  most  simple  and  sacred,  she  has  ministered  by  her 
spirit  and  by  her  instructions  to  the  pride  and  corruption 
of  our  nature.  The  legitimate  fruit  of  her  theories 
and  of  her  practical  influence  appeared  in  that  har- 
vest of  pollution  and  wo,  which  is  still  vivid  in  the 
remembrance  of  many.  The  humble  Christian, 
whatever  may  be  for  the  present  his  griefs  and  dis- 
appointments, cherishes  the  confidence  that  a brighter 


4 


scene  will  yet  be  unfolded  through  the  world;  a scene 
of  blissful  reality,  succeeding  the  darkness  and  de- 
pravity which  now  abound.  He  believes  that  this 
will  be  accomplished  through  the  word  of  divine  truth. 
He  believes  this,  because  this  truth  is  precisely  adapt- 
ed to  the  state  and  wants  of  human  nature,  as  it  un- 
folds the  true  character  of  God  and  man,  reveals  the 
way  of  salvation,  prescribes  a perfect  rule  of  duty, 
and  is  accompanied  by  an  influence  adequate  to  sub- 
due the  heart  and  life  to  holy  obedience.  He  be- 
lieves this,  because  numerous  instances  are  presented 
of  its  efficacy  in  renovating  the  heart  and  character, 
and  thus  becoming  the  “wisdom  and  power  of  God 
unto  salvation.”  He  believes  this,  in  view  of  the 
numerous  and  emphatic  promises  of  Him  who  is  in- 
finitely true  and  faithful.  Promises  like  the  follow- 
ing remain  to  be  fulfilled,  and  claim  and  deserve  the 
Christian’s  faith  and  hope: — “And  it  shall  come  to 
pass  in  the  last  days,  that  the  mountain  of  the  Lord’s 
house  shall  be  established  on  the  tops  of  the  moun- 
tains, and  shall  be  exalted  above  the  hills,  and  all  na- 
tions shall  flow  unto  it.”  “The  glory  of  the  Lord 
shall  be  revealed,  and  all  flesh  shall  see  it  together, 
for  the  mouth  of  the  Lord  hath  spoken  it.”  “For 
from  the  rising  of  the  sun  unto  the  going  down  of 
the  same,  my  name  shall  be  great  among  the  Gen- 
tiles; and  in  every  place  incense  shall  be  offered  unto 
my  name,  and  a pure  offering.”  “And  the  seventh 
angel  sounded,  and  there  were  great  voices  in  heaven, 
saying,  The  kingdoms  of  this  world  are  become  the 
kingdoms  of  our  Lord  and  of  his  Christ,  and  he  shall 
reign  forever  and  ever.”  The  Christian  believes  this, 


5 


because  the  Redeemer,  for  his  obedience  unto  death, 
is  promised  “the  heathen  for  his  inheritance,  and  the 
uttermost  parts  of  the  earth  for  his  possession.”  Je- 
sus now  sees  of  the  travail  of  his  soul  in  the  victories 
of  his  grace  among  men;  and  the  full  fruit  of  that 
travail  will  be  enjoyed  when  the  earth  shall  be  rendered 
tributary  to  his  glory,  and  filled  with  his  salvation. 
For  this  purpose,  exalted  as  Mediator,  he  has  author- 
ity in  heaven  and  on  earth,  and  rules  in  the  kingdom 
of  providence,  as  well  as  grace,  rendering  all  events 
subservient  to  the  fulfilment  of  his  counsels,  and  to 
the  final  and  universal  diffusion  of  his  kingdom,  which 
is  “righteousness,  peace,  and  joy  in  the  Iloly  Ghost.” 

The  ministry  of  the  gospel  is  the  great  instrument 
for  accomplishing  these  results.  “Thy  people  shall 
be  willing  in  the  day  of  thy  power.”  “The  Lord 
shall  send  the  rod  of  thy  strength  out  of  Zion;  rule 
thou  in  the  midst  of  thine  enemies.”  “When  he  as- 
cended on  high,  he  led  captivity  captive,  and  gave 
gifts  unto  men.  And  he  gave  some  apostles,  and 
some  prophets,  and  some  evangelists,  and  some  pas- 
tors and  teachers.”  In  organizing  his  church,  he  has 
committed  (if  we  may  so  speak)  into  her  own  bosom 
the  principle  of  her  perpetuity  and  universal  triumph. 
From  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  trust  committed  to 
her,  under  the  blessing  of  God,  stability  and  enlarge- 
ment will  assuredly  result. 

The  words  of  our  text  were  spoken  by  Jesus 
to  his  disciples  as  he  contemplated  the  multi- 
tudes destitute  of  the  means  of  religious  instruc- 
tion. “He  was  moved  with  compassion  on  them 
because  they  fainted,  and  were  as  sheep  without 


6 


a shepherd.”  The  compassion  that  dwelt  in  the 
heart  of  Jesus  is  not  foreign  to  the  hearts  of  his  peo- 
ple, for  they  are  of  one  spirit  with  him.  The  text, 

I.  Presents  an  argument  for  missionary  ef- 
forts. “The  harvest  truly  is  plenteous  but  the  la- 
borers are  few.” 

II.  Urges  a duty  in  reference  to  them. 
“Pray  ye  therefore  the  Lord  of  the  harvest,  that  he 
will  send  forth  laborers  into  his  harvest.” 

I.  An  argument  for  missionary  efforts.  “The  har- 
vest truly  is  plenteous,  but  the  laborers  are  few.” 
This  harvest  will  be  gathered,  when  the  Christian  re- 
ligion shall  universally  prevail.  It  is  well  denominat- 
ed great  in  view  of, 

1.  The  field  which  it  will  cover. 

2.  The  blessings  it  conveys. 

3.  The  instrumentality  it  requires. 

4.  The  means  and  prospects  now  furnished  by 
Providence. 

1.  It  is  great  in  view  of  the  field  which  it  will 
cover.  “The  field  is  the  world.”  As  yet  Christian- 
ity has  extended  its  influence  to  but  a small  part  of 
the  earth;  and  where  that  influence  has  been  found, 
it  has  been  partial  in  its  character.  Here  and  there  a 
spot  has  appeared  in  some  degree  verdant,  amid  a 
surrounding,  wide-spread,  arid  desert.  But  this  des- 
ert in  all  its  extent  will  be  cultivated  and  rendered 
fruitful.  All  obstacles  will  be  overcome,  and  the 
whole  earth  exhibit  the  triumphs  of  truth.  Benight- 
ed, degraded,  and  oppressed  Africa  shall  become  en- 
lightened, elevated,  and  disenthralled; — the  wall  of 
China,  (like  that  of  Jericho)  shall  fall  at  the  sound 


7 


of  the  gospel; — the  casts  of  the  Hindoos  shall  be 
broken,  and  one  bond  in  the  faith  and  service  of 
Christ  shall  unite  them; — the  Heathen  shall  every 
where  cast  their  idols  to  the  moles  and  to  the  bats, 
and  worship  the  only  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ 
whom  he  hath  sent; — the  worship  of  the  false  prophet 
shall  cease,  and  the  pure  light  and  peaceful  influence 
of  Christianity  shall  spread  over  the  regions  where 
now  Mohammedism  exerts  its  sway; — the  isles  shall 
receive  the  law  of  the  Lord: — all  the  perversions  of 
the  religion  of  Jesus  shall  be  removed,  and  the  truth 
shall  be  received  in  love,  and  exhibit  its  fruits  wher- 
ever professed!  Then  shall  be  realized 

“Scenes  surpassing  fable, 

Yet  true! — scenes  of  accomplished  bliss!" 

2.  The  harvest  is  great  in  view  of  its  many  bles- 
sings. The  religion  of  Christ  blesses  the  life  which 
now  is,  and  prepares  for  happiness  in  the  life  to  come. 
It  exalts  the  intellectual  character  of  man.  It  re- 
stores that  balance  and  harmony  in  the  intellectual 
and  moral  powers  of  man,  which  are  so  important  in 
the  proper  cultivation  of  both.  It  corrects  those  pre- 
judices, and  subdues  those  corruptions  which  prevent 
the  investigation  and  reception  of  truth.  Its  truths, 
when  rightly  viewed,  come  home  to  the  duty,  interest, 
and  affections  of  all;  and  claim  among  the  many 
proofs  of  their  divine  origin,  their  wonderful  adapta- 
tion to  the  character  and  wants  of  men.  It  was  at 
first  a peculiar  distinction  of  the  gospel  that  it  was 
“preached  to  the  poor,”  and  it  will  ever  remain  so; 
while  it  is  the  only  source  of  spiritual  instruction,  and 
can  alone  instil  that  influence  which  will  lead  to 


8 


mental  cultivation  in  the  mass  of  the  people.  Where 
the  gospel  is  not  known  or  embraced,  whatever  intel- 
lectual culture  may  exist  among  a privileged  few,  the 
multitude  will  be  found  in  ignorance  and  degradation. 
The  spirit  of  Christianity  has  wrought  itself  into  the 
frame  of  civil  government,  and  in  connection  with 
the  diffusion  of  its  light  and  power,  we  trace  the  ex- 
istence, growth,  and  stability  of  civil  and  religious 
liberty.  The  religion  of  the  gospel  refines  and  puri- 
fies the  social  affections,  hallows  the  domestic  scene, 
and  while  it  dries  up  the  sources  of  defilement  and 
bitterness,  it  opens  springs  of  pure  and  refreshing 
peace  and  joy  in  the  various  relations  of  life.  Take 
the  map  of  the  world,  and  select  those  countries  where 
Paganism,  Mohammedism,  and  Popery  bear  sway, 
and  let  the  following  inquiries  receive  an  answer. 
Are  knowledge  and  intellectual  cultivation  generally 
diffused?  Are  civil  and  religious  liberty  enjoyed? 
Is  the  female  character  elevated  and  respected?  Are 
the  duties  of  domestic  life  discharged,  and  its  delights 
mutually  participated?  Do  purity  and  peace  pervade 
the  community?  The  negative  to  these  inquiries  ap- 
pears in  full  view.  As  we'  take  the  contrast,  and 
mark  the  countries  where  the  Bible  has  shed  its  influ- 
ence, we  discover  the  blessings  adverted  to  all  follow- 
ing in  the  train. 

But  the  religion  of  Christ  sustains  its  distinguish- 
ing and  commanding  value  as  a revelation  of  truth 
and  grace,  and  as  the  great  instrument  of  our  deliver- 
ance from  everlasting  death.  The  truths  peculiar  to 
it  respect  man’s  fallen  and  ruined  state;  redemption 
through  the  atoning  merits  of  the  divine  Savior; 


9 


the  regenerating  and  sanctifying  influence  of  the  Holy 
Spirit  in  restoring  to  that  holiness  “without  which  no 
man  shall  see  the  Lord.”  These  truths,  and  others 
immediately  connected  with  them,  constitute  the  vital- 
ity of  the  religion  of  the  gospel.  Without  them,  its 
glory  departs,  its  influence  ceases,  and  spiritual  death 
continues  to  prevail.  Under  their  influence,  the  sinner, 
awakened  and  renewed,  returns  in  penitence  to  his 
God;  gratefully  embraces  the  salvation  which  is  in 
Christ  Jesus;  takes  up  feebly  yet  sweetly  the  song  of 
redeeming  love;  cultivates  purity  of  heart  and  life, 
and  devotes  himself,  in  reliance  upon  divine  strength, 
to  active  exertions  for  the  promotion  of  the  divine 
glory,  and  the  best  interests  of  his  fellow-men. 
These  are  the  truths  which  give  life  to  benevolent 
effort  in  seeking  the  spiritual  and  eternal  welfare  of 
men.  When  they  are  not  cordially  embraced,  the 
wants  of  men  as  sinners,  and  the  value  of  the  remedy 
provided,  cannot  be  duly  estimated,  and  an  awakened 
interest  and  cordial  and  efficient  co-operation  in  the 
cause  of  missions  cannot  be  expected.  The  history 
of  the  church  clearly  shows,  that,  whenever  they  have 
been  denied  or  kept  out  of  sight,  there  has  been  an 
indifference  to  the  spiritual  wants  and  interests  of  men, 
and  the  cause  of  missions  has  languished  or  died.  In 
the  first  age  of  Christianity,  the  doctrine  of  Jesus 
Christ  and  him  crucified,  “to  the  Jew  a stumbling 
block,  and  to  the  Greek  foolishness,”  proved  the  wis- 
dom of  God  and  the  power  of  God  to  salvation  to 
every  one  that  believed;  and  so  it  has  proved  in  every 
age.  In  recent  missions  we  find  the  value  and  effi- 
cacy of  these  truths  witnessed  by  their  success  in  ele- 


JO 


vating  character,  promoting  order  and  happiness,  and 
preparing  sinners  for  heaven.  The  lapse  of  a few 
years  has  exhibited  in  the  South  Sea  Islands,  the  seat 
ot  British  and  American  foreign  missions,  a very  sig- 
nal and  convincing  contrast  in  the  state  of  knowledge, 
social  and  civil  order,  domestic  purity  and  happiness, 
and  true  religion.  The  wisdom  of  the  world  reiter- 
ates the  assertion,  that  it  is  vain  to  attempt  to  Chris- 
tianize, unless  we  first  civilize  Pagan  nations — that  it 
is  vain  to  expect  their  religious  improvement,  unless 
some  steps  are  previously  gained  in  the  process  of 
mental  culture.  Facts  refute  this  theory  of  infidel 
wisdom,  and  evince  that  Christianity,  while  it  inspires 
the  only  pure  and  abiding  principle  of  benevolent 
effort,  at  the  same  time  alone  furnishes  the  truths 
which  come  home  to  the  hearts  and  consciences  of 
men  in  all  ages,  ranks,  circumstances,  and  characters 
of  life.  Divine  truth,  imparted  by  Christian  missions, 
has  proved  the  great  instrument  of  mental  and  moral  as 
well  as  spiritual  culture.  The  Moravian  brethren, 
as  if  studious  to  select  a field  most  fitted  to  test  this 
point,  chose  nations  most  debased  in  ignorance,  super- 
stition, and  pollution,  and  the  result  of  their  labors  has 
furnished  decisive  evidence  in  this  matter.  This  love- 
ly band  of  believers  have  furnished  an  example  wor- 
thy of  imitation  by  the  whole  Christian  world.  In 
the  smallness  of  their  number  and  the  feebleness  of 
their  resources,  they  have  gone  forth  in  the  love  of 
Christ,  disregarding  toils  and  sacrifices,  and  in  un- 
wearied devotion  to  their  work,  delivering  the  gospel 
message  in  all  its  simplicity  and  purity.  In  every 
place  fruit  has  sprung  up,  honoring  God  and  blessing 


]] 


man.  Had  a similar  spirit  prevailed  throughout  the 
Christian  church,  and  a correspondent  amount  of  con- 
tributions and  efforts  been  furnished,  a far  different 
aspect  would  have  been  presented.  Many  a field  now 
desolate  would  have  blossomed  as  the  rose;  and  many 
a place  now  solitary  would  have  been  made  glad. 
The  spirit  of  the  world,  whether  directed  in  the  form 
of  commercial  enterprise,  literary  research,  or  projects 
of  ambition,  can  never  furnish  the  proper  stimlus  to 
benevolent  effort.  Commerce  and  science  can  never 
supply  the  proper  means  for  curing  the  moral  diseases 
and  woes  of  men  dwelling  in  darkness  and  sin. 
Philosophy  ministers  her  lessons  in  vain,  and  employs 
her  efforts  without  effect.  She  mav  irritate,  but  can- 
not  cure  the  wound.  “Leviathan  is  not  so  tamed.” 
When  the  truth  of  God  comes  with  power  from  on 
high,  it  proves  “a  discerner  of  the  thoughts  and  in- 
tents of  the  heart;”  sets  men  free  from  the  bondage 
of  error  and  corruption,  and  places  them  in  the  lib- 
erty of  truth  and  holiness.  To  learn  the  greatness 
of  the  harvest  in  the  value  of  its  blessings,  we  should 
contemplate  its  temporal  gain  in  the  contrast  of  the 
ignorance,  error,  pollution,  vice,  and  misery,  which 
it  removes,  with  the  knowledge,  purity,  peace,  and 
happiness,  which  it  introduces  through  all  the  rela- 
tions and  conditions  of  life.  And  we  should  contem- 
plate its  eternal  gain  in  the  contrast  of  the  everlasting 
loss  of  the  soul  in  ever-enduring  corruption  and  wo 
under  the  wrath  of  God,  with  its  everlasting  life  to 
the  pardoned,  sanctified,  and  saved.  When  the  whole 
earth  becomes  filled  with  divine  truth,  great  will  be  the 
harvest  in  the  magnitude  of  the  blessings  thus  secured. 


12 


3.  The  harvest  must  appear  great , in  view  of  the 
instrumentality  it  requires . The  great  result  is  to  be 
accomplished  by  the  faithful  use  of  those  means  which 
God  has  in  his  wisdom  and  goodness  appointed.  As 
in  the  natural  world,  means  must  be  used  in  prepara- 
tion for  harvest;  and,  as  ordinarily,  the  product  will 
correspond  to  the  skill  and  diligence  with  which  the 
means  are  employed;  so,  also,  in  the  spiritual  world, 
means  are  equally  necessary;  and  a like  correspond- 
ence in  the  product  will  exist.  “It  pleases  God,  by  the 
foolishness  of  preaching,  to  save  them  that  believe.” 
“How  shall  they  hear  without  a preacher;  and  how 
shall  they  preach  except  they  be  sent?”  God  will, 
indeed,  as  the  latter  day  glory  advances,  open  more 
numerous  avenues,  and  multiply  facilities  for  mission- 
ary labors;  and  will  more  abundantly  bless  them  in 
the  outpouring  of  his  Spirit.  But,  at  the  same  time, 
he  will  shed  forth  his  Spirit  into  the  bosom  of  his 
church,  and  arouse  her  energies  for  promoting  the 
work  of  the  Lord,  by  all  the  means  within  her  prov- 
ince. Zion  strengthens  her  stakes,  and  lengthens  her 
chords  at  the  same  time.  When  the  glory  of  the 
Lord  rises  upon  her,  she  arises  out  of  the  dust,  puts 
on  her  beautiful  garments,  and  goes  forth  in  his 
strength,  and  receives  abundant  increase.  The  ne- 
cessity of  a ministry  well  qualified  in  mental,  literary, 
and  spiritual  endowments,  thoroughly  trained  to  be- 
come teachers  and  guides  to  the  flock  of  Christ,  and 
to  resist  the  assaults  of  every  foe,  whether  secret  or 
open,  is  evident.  The  character  of  the  ministry,  in 
the  combination  of  the  requisite  qualifications  for  the 
skilful,  successful,  and  devoted  discharge  of  their 


13 


work,  should  be  equally  the  subject  of  anxious  prayer 
and  diligent  attention  with  the  increase  of  their  num- 
ber. A weak,  undisciplined  ministry  may  do  injury, 
as  well  as  an  unsanctified  one.  The  opinion  may 
sometimes  have  been  entertained  and  expressed,  that 
the  same  qualifications  are  not  required  in  the  mis- 
sionary going  among  the  ignorant  and  degraded  hea- 
then, as  in  the  pastor  of  a Christian  flock  intelligent 
and  refined.  The  opinion  is  very  erroneous.  If,  in- 
deed, a distinction  is  allowed,  surely  the  higher  re- 
quirements are  in  the  case  of  the  missionary.  Un- 
aided by  the  associations  and  advantages  which  the 
minister  enjoys  in  Christian  society,  he  goes  forth 
to  build,  not  upon  another  man’s  foundation,  but  as  a 
master-builder,  to  lay  the  foundation.  What  a com- 
bination of  qualities  are  requisite  for  such  laborers; 
sound,  disciplined  intellect,  various  knowledge,  ele- 
vated piety,  and  much  acquaintance  with  human  na- 
ture; uniform  meekness,  unwavering  courage,  and 
unremitted  devotion  to  his  labors  of  love. 

In  advancing  the  kingdom  of  Christ,  the  prejudi- 
ces, interests,  and  policy  of  the  world  rise  in  opposi- 
tion. In  what  various  forms,  and  with  what  power, 
have  they  hitherto  appeared!  What  is  not  required 
in  those  who  go  forth  to  meet  the  foe,  and  fight  for 
the  cause  of  truth  and  holiness,  with  weapons  which 
“are  not  carnal,  but  mighty  through  God.”  How 
plainly  do  we  behold  verified,  in  the  condition  of  the 
world,  our  Saviour’s  declaration,  “The  laborers  are 
few.”  In  our  own  favored  country,  while,  as  we 
hope,  a new  spirit  and  new  efforts  are  appearing  in 
the  church,  still  what  exertions  are  needed  to  provide 


14 


and  train  a supply  of  ministers  adequate  to  meet  the 
wants  of  our  waste  places,  our  weak  and  destitute 
churches,  and  our  rapidly  extending  population.  We 
cordially  greet  the  efforts  employed  for  increasing  the 
number  and  qualifications  of  ministers.  And  we  call 
upon  the  churches  for  redoubled  zeal  and  activity;  for 
“the  harvest  is  still  great,  but  the  laborers  are  few.” 
We  look  over  the  regions  of  Christendom,  and  mark 
its  many  and  extended  wastes  and  wants.  The  labor- 
ers are  manifestly  “few.”  As  we  look  farther,  through 
the  heathen  world,  how  large  and  waste  is  the  field; 
while,  in  parts  remote  from  each  other,  a solitary 
laborer  is  found.  The  regularly  ordained  missiona- 
ries from  the  different  Christian  denominations, 
among  the  six  hundred  millions  of  heathen  in  differ- 
ent parts  of  the  world,  as  far  as  ascertained,  amount 
to  about  six  hundred  and  fifty.  They  are  in  some 
cases  aided  by  assistants  and  native  teachers.  Still 
how  emphatically  is  the  harvest  great,  and  the  la- 
borers few:  while  some  parts  of  the  field  are  already 
white  for  the  harvest. 

4.  The  harvest  is  great , in  view  of  the  means  and 
prospects  furnished  by  Providence.  God,  in  advanc- 
ing his  kingdom  on  earth,  prepares  the  way,  in  ar- 
ranging the  events  of  his  providence.  He  raises  up 
instruments  qualified  for  his  work;  and  often  opens 
the  way  before  them,  as  they  go  forth  crying,  “Pre- 
pare ye  the  way  of  the  Lord;  make  straight  in  the 
desert  a high-way  for  our  God.”  When  the  disciples 
were  assembled,  on  the  day  of  Pentecost,  waiting  for 
the  promise  of  the  Spirit,  they  were  endued  with 
power  from  on  high,  and  the  gift  of  tongues  rested 


lo 


upon  them.  They  went  forth,  working  miracles  as 
a proof  of  their  divine  commission,  at  the  introduc- 
tion of  the  new  dispensation;  and  with  the  gift  of 
tongues  fulfilling  the  Saviour’s  injunction  when  as- 
cending on  high,  “Go  ye  and  preach  the  gospel  to 
every  creature.”  How  well  was  this  adapted  to  the 
times  and  circumstances  in  which  the  apostles  tvere 
placed.  When,  in  subsequent  ages,  the  line  gold  had 
become  dim,  and  the  glory  had  departed — when  re- 
ligion had  become  united  with  the  power  and  policy 
of  state,  and  converted  into  an  engine  of  despotism — 
when  the  Bible  was  confined  to  a few,  and  the  maxim 
was  enforced,  “Ignorance  is  the  mother  of  devotion” 
— when  thick  darkness  had  for  centuries  brooded 
over  the  nations;  it  pleased  God  signally  to  prepare 
the  way  for  the  Reformation.  The  art  of  printing 
had  been  invented;  the  mariner’s  compass  was  in  use; 
the  revival  of  letters  had  commenced.  Luther  trans- 
lated the  Bible  into  German,  saying,  “Let  there  be 
light;”  and  the  press  multiplied  its  copies.  The 
struggle  of  the  Reformation  was  in  a great  measure 
to  recover  Christianity  from  human  usurpation,  and 
to  restore  it  to  its  rightful  Lord.  The  revival  of  let- 
ters furnished  means  for  elucidating  the  word  of  God, 
and  clearing  it  from  corruptions.  In  succeeding  times 
the  reformed  churches  fell  into  a deep  slumber. 
While  they  “slept,  the  enemy  sowed  tares.”  We 
W'ell  remember  how  plenteously  they  sprang  up.  In- 
fidelity presented  a bold  front,  and  threatened  to 
destroy  every  thing  sacred.  In  such  troublous  times 
the  true  people  of  God  were  revived  in  spirit;  and  as 
they  trembled  for  the  ark,  mourned  over  the  sins 


16 


and  woes  of  Zion,  poured  forth  their  intercessions, 
and  said  to  each  other,  “Let  us  rise  and  build,”  the 
pool  which  had  become  stagnant,  was  stirred  by  the 
Angel  of  the  Covenant,  and  afforded  a refreshing  and 
vivifying  influence.  When  reviewing  the  last  forty 
years,  we  acknowledge,  with  admiring  gratitude,  the 
various  institutions  of  Christian  benevolence,  which 
are  now  in  harmonious  operation,  exerting  a mighty 
moral  influence,  and  furnishing  facilities  and  means 
to  missionaries  before  unknown.  The  Bible  Society 
multiplies  copies  of  the  scriptures  in  the  various  lan- 
guages of  the  world,  and  supplies  the  place  of  the 
gift  of  tongues. — It  is  needless  to  specify  the  various 
forms  of  Christian  charity,  which,  commencing  with 
infancy,  lays  the  basis  of  a scriptural  and  religious 
education,  and  follows  man  in  every  course  and  state 
of  life;  and  seeks  to  apply  the  best  relief  of  sin,  and 
want,  and  wo. 

The  efforts  of  the  present  day  for  arresting  and 
turning  back  that  fell  destroyer,  intemperance,  which 
has  annually  slain  its  thousands  and  tens  of  thousands, 
and  which  has  interposed  supli  formidable  obstacles 
to  the  success  of  the  gospel,  are  of  incalculable  worth. 

The  spirit  of  missions,  which  characterizes  the  pres- 
ent period,  commenced  with  the  revival  of  religion  in 
the  churches.  Domestic  and  foreijrn  missions  have 
grown  and  strengthened  in  connection  with  the  power 
of  religion.  The  era  of  foreign  efforts  is  identified 
with  the  prosperity  of  religion  at  home. 

The  events  which  have  recently  transpired  mark 
the  present  as  an  interesting  crisis  in  the  history  of 
the  world.  The  Christian  will  with  care  study  the 


17 


page  of  prophecy,  and  the  movements  of  Providence, 
and  mark  the  light  which  they  mutually  shed  on  each 
other.  Though  humbly  conscious  that  it  is  not  for 
him  “to  know  the  times  and  the  seasons,  which  are  in 
the  Father’s  hand,”  he  will  carefully  watch  the  signs 
of  the  times,  and  discharge  the  duties  to  which  Prov- 
idence invites.  By  common  consent  it  is  universally 
admitted  that  the  prophetic  period  of  twelve  hundred 
and  sixty  years  is  drawing  to  its  close,  preceding  the 
universal  prevalence  of  Christ’s  kingdom  in  the  world. 
Meanwhile,  momentous  and  interesting  events  must 
transpire  in  the  civil  and  ecclesiastical  world;  and  far 
mightier  efforts  must  be  employed  by  the  church. 
Do  we  not  now  perceive  the  high  and  holy  One 
“shaking  not  the  earth  only  but  also  heaven;  that  by 
the  removing  of  those  things  that  are  shaken,  as  of 
things  that  are  made,  those  things  that  cannot  be 
shaken  may  remain?”  The  Mohammedan  power  is 
declining,  and  “the  waters  of  the  Euphrates  are  dry- 
ing up.”  The  Christian  colonies  on  the  coast  of 
Africa  furnish  a presage  of  the  entire  extinction  of 
one  of  the  foulest  blots  on  Christendom, — the  slave 
trade;  and  the  regeneration  of  long-afflicted  and  de- 
graded Africa.  Papal  institutions  and  governments, 
which  have  pressed  heavily  upon  the  interests  of  civil 
and  religious  liberty,  are  also  shaken.  Literature, 
science  and  true  religion  are  extending  their  benign 
influence.  The  angel  is  flying  in  the  midst  of  heav- 
en, with  the  everlasting  gospel.  God  is  giving  proof 
that  his  word  “shall  not  return  void.”  The  voice  of 
Providence,  then,  is,  “Arise,  shine,  for  thy  light  is 
come,  and  the  glory  of  the  Lord  is  risen  upon  thee.” 
3 


IB 


Such  is  the  harvest,  great  in  the  extent  of  its  field, 
in  the  blessings  it  conveys,  in  the  instrumentality  it 
requires,  and  in  the  means  and  prospects  furnished  by 
Providence. 

II.  The  text  urges  our  duty  in  relation  to  mission- 
ary efforts:  “ Pray  ye  the  Lord  of  the  harvest , that  he 
will  send  forth  laborers  into  his  harvest .” 

The  spirit  of  the  Christian  is  that  of  love  to  Christ 
and  to  Zion;  his  life  is  in  sincere  and  unreserved  de- 
votion to  his  Saviour’s  glory  and  Zion’s  prosperity. 
Prayer  is  his  vital  breath.  In  proportion  as  his  own 
soul  prospers  will  intercession  constitute  a leading 
part  in  his  addresses  to  the  throne  of  grace.  It 
should  never  escape  our  remembrance,  that  of  the  six 
petitions  in  the  summary  of  prayer  furnished  us  by 
our  Saviour,  three  respect  the  display  of  his  glory  and 
the  extension  of  his  kingdom  on  earth.  “Pray  for  the 
peace  of  Jerusalem:  they  shall  prosper  that  love  thee.” 
The  discharge  of  the  duty  enjoined  by  our  Saviour 
supposes, 

1.  That  we  cherish  a deep  and  constant  sense  of  our 
dependence  upon  divine  grace.  The  private  Chris- 
tian, in  the  divine  life,  “is  clothed  with  humility,” 
lives  a life  of  faith  in  the  Son  of  God,  and  seeks  con- 
tinued supplies  of  the  grace  and  help  of  the  Spirit. 
So  the  Christian  church  should  always  be  found  in 
the  attitude  of  leaning  on  her  Beloved;  and  should 
realize  that  “all  her  springs  are  in  God.”  “The 
treasure  is  in  earthen  vessels:  the  excellency  of  the 
power  is  of  God.”  When  this  sense  of  dependence 
has  been  lost,  and  yielded  to  self-complacency  and 
self-confidence,  how  often  has  it  proved  that  the  very 


19 


instrumentality  which  should  have  promoted  the 
purity  and  growth  of  religion  has  tended  to  its  corrup- 
tion and  decline.  How  many  places  once  beautiful 
are  now  desolate.  “They  said  they  were  enriched 
with  goods;  and  they  were  poor.”  As  we  contem- 
plate the  spiritual  building,  whose  base  is  to  cover  the 
earth,  and  whose  top  shall  reach  the  heavens,  and 
look  forward  to  the  time  when  the  top  stone  shall  be 
laid,  with  shouting,  Grace,  grace  unto  it;  and  at  the 
same  time  consider  the  difficulties  that  attend  the 
work,  the  weakness  of  the  instruments  employed,  and 
the  malice  and  power  of  opposing  foes,  we  are  ready 
to  ask,  How  can  this  be?  A voice  from  heaven 
speaks,  “Who  art  thou,  O great  mountain?  before 
Zerubbabel,  thou  shalt  become  a plain.  Not  by  might, 
nor  by  power,  but  by  my  Spirit.”  Is  there  not  dan- 
ger, lest,  in  the  midst  of  action,  the  church  should  for- 
get the  proper  spring  of  action?  Where  will  be  the 
glory  and  value  of  the  tabernacle,  if  the  ark  of  the 
covenant  is  removed? 

2.  This  duty  requires  habitual  and  fervent  remem- 
brance in  our  private  devotions.  Love  to  the  Re- 
deemer’s cause  is  not  a transient  emotion  in  the  Chris- 
tian heart;  but  it  is  a fixed  principle  and  growing 
habit  of  soul.  “He  prefers  Jerusalem  above  his  chief 
joy.”  He  should  then  be  frequent,  fervent,  importu- 
nate, and  persevering  in  his  intercession.  Do  we 
not  greatly  fail  in  this  point?  How  often  is  Zion  for- 
gotten or  remembered  only  with  coldness?  In  this 
we  may  find  a test  of  our  spiritual  state.  In  asking 
for  personal  blessings,  our  deceitful  hearts  may  be- 
tray us.  When,  in  freeness  and  enlargement  of  spirit, 


20 


we  seek  the  good  of  Zion,  we  have  the  best  proof  that 
we  are  born  from  above.  Oh,  that  from  the  closets 
and  habitations  of  the  righteous  the  smoke  of  incense, 
in  fervent,  effectual  prayer,  may  continually  ascend 
before  the  mercy-seat,  as  a sweet-smelling  savor  unto 
the  Lord. 

3.  This  duty  requires  union  in  Christians. — Address- 
ing his  assembled  disciples,  Jesus  said,  Pray  ye.  The 
true  disciples  of  Jesus  are  united  in  spirit  and  service. 
The  words  of  our  Saviour’s  prayer  are  memorable; 
“That  they  all  may  be  one,  as  thou,  Father,  art  in 
me,  and  I in  thee;  that  they  also  may  be  one  in  us, 
that  the  world  may  believe  that  thou  hast  sent  me.” 
What  Christian  can  be  reluctant  to  engage  in  a ser- 
vice so  delightful  and  animating,  as  united  prayer  for 
the  coming  of  Christ’s  kingdom  on  earth.  Who  will 
not  say,  I will  go  also?  The  monthly  concert  observed 
by  various  evangelical  denominations  is  greatly  to  be 
valued.  Were  it  to  inspire  a deeper  interest,  and 
meet  with  a more  general,  punctual,  and  appropriate 
attendance,  the  fruits  thereof  would  be  manifest  in 
our  own  bosom,  and  be  seen  spread  around  us.  The 
first  suggestion  of  a concert  similar  to  this,  was  made 
to  the  American  churches  by  one  (President  Edwards) 
who,  “being  dead  yet  speaketh,”  in  the  fruit  of  his 
labors,  and  in  his  writings  transmitted  to  us,  and  who 
possessed  the  rare  combination  of  the  acutest  and 
most  vigorous  intellect,  with  the  most  simple  and  ten- 
der piety.  His  treatise  on  this  subject  deserves  most 
careful  perusal.  “On  the  day  of  Pentecost  the  disci- 
ples were  with  one  accord  in  one  place,  continuing  in 
prayer  and  supplication.”  It  was  there  that  the  Holy 


21 


Spirit  descended  upon  them,  and  they  went  forth  and 
preached  the  Gospel  of  the  kingdom.  The  same 
truth  which  they  preached  is  committed  to  us; — the 
same  Spirit  which  descended  on  them,  and  crowned 
their  labors,  is  promised.  Fervent  prayer  will  lead 
to  corresponding  effort; — united  prayer  will  lead  to 
united  effort.  Among  those  who  embrace  the  same 
fundamental  truths  which  humble  the  sinner,  exalt 
the  Saviour,  and  promote  holiness,  there  exists  a diver- 
sity in  smaller  points  which  properly  leads  to  distinct 
organization.  Here  harmony  is  best  promoted,  and 
strength  gained,  by  each  cherishing  a sacred  regard 
to  the  rights  and  interests  of  others,  and  rejoicing  in 
their  prosperity.  It  is  remarked  by  Montgomery, 
that  the  efforts  of  distinct  denominations  in  promoting 
the  cause  of  religion,  are  like  the  light  of  the  sun 
reflected  in  the  rainbow,  a token  of  peace  and  salva- 
tion to  a lost  world,  while  their  common  exertions 
are  like  the  rays  blended  in  light.  While  faithful  in 
improving  their  particular  spheres,  there  is  a common 
cause  in  which  all  the  servants  of  Christ  should  join: 
— the  cause  of  truth  and  righteousness,  against  error 
and  sin.  When  tempted  by  the  pride  of  opinion,  in 
matters  comparatively  unimportant,  or  by  the  clashing 
of  selfish  interests,  let  us,  found  laboring  with  the 
host  of  Israel,  say,  “I  cannot  come  down,  I am  doing 
a great  work.” 

4.  This  duty  requires  the  use  of  all  proper  means 
for  suitably  training  laborers  for  the  missionary  field. 
A suggestion  has  been  advanced,  as  to  the  expe- 
diency of  instituting  a seminary  or  a distinct  depart- 
ment especially  designed  for  this  object.  It  is  worthy 


of  serious  consideration.  It  is  believed,  that  such  a 
seminary  would  not  only  furnish  greater  advantages 
to  its  members,  but  that  it  would  more  directly,  and 
distinctly  bring  the  cause  of  foreign  missions  before 
the  Christian  public,  and  inspire  a deeper  interest  in 
its  favor.  In  our  favored  churches,  where  the  Spirit’s 
influence  is  enjoyed,  let  the  subject  of  foreign  missions 
be  presented  in  just  prominence.  In  our  theological 
seminaries,  let  a careful  inquiry  and  deep  interest  be 
cultivated  and  cherished  among  their  members,  who 
shall  soon  go  forth,  to  preside  in  the  churches  of  our 
own  land,  to  give  a tone  to  their  sentiments  and  feel- 
ings, or  else  to  enter  themselves  upon  the  glorious 
work. 

5.  This  duty  requires  that  all  the  churches  of 
Christ  should  systematically  and  efficiently  aid  in  the 
promotion  of  the  cause  of  missions.  It  cannot  be 
necessary  to  argue  the  duty  of  professed  Christians  to 
give  their  prayers,  their  property,  and  labors  to  this 
cause.  The  Christian  judgment  needs  not  be  con- 
vinced, but  the  Christian  conscience  needs  to  be 
awaked,  and  the  heart  affected.  Christians  should 
learn  to  give,  not  from  the  impulse  of  momentary  ex- 
citement, but  from  the  deliberate  conviction  of  duty, 
in  the  discharge  of  which  the  heart  seeks  its  highest 
joy. — Systematically,  I say,  because  it  is  to  be  regret- 
ted, that  so  many  churches  so  readily  relax  their  ef- 
forts, until  some  new  impulse  be  given,  which  again 
soon  spends  itself.  These  are  like  the  mountain 
streams,  fed  by  sudden  showers,  which  soon  pass 
away.  The  efforts  and  contributions  made  by  the 
enlightened  judgment,  and  disciplined  heart,  are  like 


the  majestic  river,  fed  by  living  springs,  which  heeds 
not  the  drought  of  summer,  but  passes  on,  widening 
and  deepening.  It  is  the  genuine  spirit  of  religion, 
to  prize  and  promote  foreign  Missions;  and  every 
proper  effort  to  promote  them  advances  religion  at 
home.  It  is  here  true,  as  in  other  things, — “There 
is  that  scattereth  and  yet  increaseth.”  “He  that 
watereth  shall  be  watered  himself.”  And,  on  the 
other  hand, — “There  is  that  withholdeth  more  than 
is  meet,  and  it  tendeth  to  poverty.”  Where  the 
churches  are  blessed  with  the  spirit’s  influence,  cher- 
ishing the  graces  of  the  pious,  and  converting  sinners 
to  Christ,  there  will  be  found  free  will  offerings 
brought  liberally,  cheerfully,  and  continually,  in  be- 
half of  this  cause. — Look,  on  the  other  hand,  to  the 
churches  indifferent  to  this  cause,  and  neglectful  of 
duty:  there  mildew  and  blasting  spread,  and  spiritual 
barrenness  reigns.  When  the  churches  of  Christ 
shall  harmoniously  exert  their  energies,  what,  under 
the  divine  blessing,  may  not  be  accomplished? 

Wre  have  reason  to  acknowledge,  at  this  returning 
anniversary  the  continued  favor  of  Providence  toward 
this  Board  of  Foreign  Missions.  Twenty  years  have 
elapsed  since  its  organization.  The  circumstance  of  a 
few  pious  youths  devoting  themselves  to  missions 
among  the  heathen,  led  to  its  formation.  It  has  exerted 
a most  salutary  influence  on  the  internal  state  of  our 
churches;  and  its  continued  prosperity  stands  identi- 
fied with  the  glory  of  the  church  and  the  welfare  of 
our  nation.  If  there  be  a nation  on  earth  more  in- 
debted to  the  gospel  than  all  others,  it  is  ours;  and 
shall  we  not  testify  our  gratitude  by  contributing  to 


24 


extend  its  blessings  to  other  nations?  Every  thing  in 
our  history  and  circumstances,  reminds  us  of  the  in- 
valuable privileges  and  mercies  handed  down  by  our 
ancestors,  the  puritan  pilgrims  and  others,  and  the 
responsibility  resting  upon  us.  One  theme  of  regret, 
however,  presents  itself,  in  the  very  considerable  de- 
ficiency in  the  revenue  of  this  year,  compared  with 
that  of  last  year,  while  new  missionary  fields  are 
opening.  The  march  of  Christian  charity  and  mu- 
nificence should  be  ever  onward.  Let  every  pastor 
present  the  claims  of  this  cause  prominently  before 
the  people,  and  feel  that  its  prosperity  is  identified 
with  the  success  of  his  labors  at  home.  Let  infor- 
mation be  generally  extended,  and  every  means  to 
excite  interest  and  combine  effort  be  employed. 
While  in  opposing  the  march  of  truth,  various  errors 
and  conflicting  interests  combine,  let  the  church  of 
God  arise  in  her  strength,  and  in  unbroken  columns 
march  onward  under  the  banners  of  the  great  Cap- 
tain, from  victory  to  victory.  While  the  enemy  op- 
poses and  rages,  we  remember,  “More  are  they  that 
are  for  us,  than  they  that  are  against  us.”  God’s 
truth  is  great,  and  must  finally  triumph. 


